Effect of Temperature on the Population Growth ofTirathaba rufivena(Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) onAreca catechu(Arecaceae)

Abstract

Abstract Tirathaba rufivena Walker (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) is a major insect pest of Arecaceae such as Areca catechu L. (areca), Cocos nucifera L. (coconut), and Elaeis guineensis Jacq. (African oil palm). The larvae feed mainly on the palm flowers, fruits, and leaves, leading to the dropping of flowers and fruits, and they have caused economic damage and crop losses. In order to provide a foundation for the forecasting and scientific management of this pest, the effect of temperature on the development time, survival, and reproduction of T. rufivena reared on A. catechu was studied at 7 constant temperatures (16, 20, 24, 28, 32, 36, and 40 °C). The lower development threshold temperature and the effective accumulated temperature for the completion of the life cycle were 13.4 °C and 1,428.6 degree-days, respectively. The highest survival rate (30.0%) occurred at 28 °C. Eggs failed to survive at 16 and 40 °C. The population trend index (I = 19.04) and net reproductive rate (R0 = 10.40) were highest at 28 ...